LEILA JEFFREYS

21 Nov 2014-10 Jan 2015

Overview

Leila Jeffreys (born 1972, Papua New Guinea) has for many years photographed native Australian birds including Cockatoos, Budgerigars and Finches. She works alongside scientists researching endangered species; her profound ornithological knowledge and extensive travel are intrinsic to her work. Jeffreys' search for a conscientious way to photograph birds has given her projects from early on an inherent rigour. Seeking to document each variety of bird from a particular species she has worked regularly with wildlife rescue groups and conservation projects. Previously Jeffreys photographed Australia's national bird – the Budgerigar – a commonplace bird in its native country. A wish to express that the beauty of small birds is often overlooked led Jeffreys to photograph the Budgerigar with a similar approach given to a human portrait.